Is TFA’s selection model effective at selecting successful teachers?

Building on decades of internal research, we have identified several key applicant characteristics, such as leadership ability and perseverance, that are associated with positive future effects on students.

External studies have demonstrated that our selection model is effective at selecting teachers who are likely to be successful during their first years of teaching.

One study in particular found that teachers’ academic achievement, leadership experience, and perseverance are predictive of student gains in math, and that leadership experience and commitment to our mission are predictive of student gains in English. Critical thinking ability and respect for others are associated with fewer behavioral infractions by students.

This study provides encouraging evidence that our selection model is identifying promising teachers. We’re committed to refining our model and strengthening it further through ongoing internal and external research.